Abdominoplasty

(Tummy Tuck)

Abdominoplasty, known more commonly as a "tummy tuck," is a major surgical procedure to remove excess skin and fat from the middle and lower abdomen and to tighten the muscles of the abdominal wall.

Abdominoplasty can dramatically tighten the abdominal muscles, as well as the sagging, excess skin and accumulated fatty tissue. Not only will the abdomen be firmer and flatter, but the waist will be smaller as well. But bear in mind, it does produce a permanent scar, which, depending on the extent of the original problem and the surgery required to correct it, can extend from hip to hip.

Photos courtesy of Dr Bauer,

Atlanta Georgia

There are several different abdominoplasty techniques. The most common procedure is performed under general anaesthesia. In the full abdominoplasty procedure, an incision is made across the lower abdomen, just above the pubic area that extends laterally along the bikini-line. Another incision is made around the belly button to free the surrounding skin, and then all of the skin is separated from the abdominal wall. Then the loose muscles are pulled from the left and the right sides and sutured together. This tightens the muscles to create a stronger abdominal wall and a smaller waist. Excess skin is removed, and a new opening is made for the belly button at the right position.

The procedure takes 1-3 hours.

One overnight stay after the surgery is most common. Depending on the extent of the surgery and the technique used, you may have to remain hospitalised for two to three days. If the area of repair is minimal, you may be able to go home the same day.

For the first few days, your abdomen will feel tight and you're likely to feel some pain and discomfort which can be controlled by medication. You will feel that your abdominal wall is being stretched when you stand up and walk. However, there is generally no major pain, mostly discomfort.

It may take several weeks to feel completely back to normal. Some people return to work after two weeks, while others take four weeks to recuperate.

Your scars may appear to worsen during the first few months, but this is normal. It may take up to a year before your scars flatten out and lighten in color. While they'll never disappear completely, these scars will be placed so that your clothes, including most bathing suits, will cover them.

If your only problem area is below the belly button, you may benefit from a less complex procedure called a partial abdominoplasty, which can often be performed on an outpatient basis, under local anaesthetic with light sedation.

Average Cost: $6000-$9000